When illness or injury prevents you from working, the financial pressure can mount quickly. Whether you’re a self-employed tradesperson, a freelance consultant, or even a company director, your ability to earn is often tied directly to your health. That’s why having income protection insurance in place is such a vital part of any solid financial plan. But it’s not just about having cover—it’s also about knowing how to claim successfully when the time comes. 

If you ever find yourself needing to rely on your policy, understanding the claims process can make a world of difference. In this article, we break down the key steps, documentation, and tips to ensure your claim goes as smoothly as possible. 

Step 1: Understand What Your Policy Covers 

Before you even need to claim, take the time to read and understand your policy documents. Not all income protection policies are the same. Some cover you only if you can’t perform any job, while others (more favourably) cover you if you can’t perform your own job. 

Most income protection insurance policies in Ireland cover illness, injury, and disability that prevent you from working for a prolonged period. However, they do not cover redundancy, short-term sickness, or pre-existing conditions unless specifically stated. 

Key things to check: 

• Deferred period: The waiting time before benefits are paid (e.g. 4, 8, or 13 weeks). 
• Benefit level: Usually up to 75% of your regular income, minus any social welfare. 
• Policy term: How long you’ll receive payments (e.g. until retirement or fixed term). 
• Exclusions: Check for any listed exclusions like stress-related illness or back injuries unless medically diagnosed. 

Step 2: Notify the Insurer Early 

Don’t wait until the deferred period has passed before contacting your insurer. Most providers recommend that you inform them as soon as you stop working due to illness or injury—even if you’re not sure whether the condition will last long enough to qualify. 

Some insurers require notification within a certain time frame (e.g. within 2 weeks of stopping work), so prompt communication is key to a successful claim. 

Tip: Even if your situation is still evolving, giving your insurer an early heads-up allows them to start the process and advise you on what documents you’ll need to prepare. 

Step 3: Gather the Required Documentation 

Once your claim is initiated, your insurer will ask for documentation to support it. The process can vary slightly between insurers, but typically, you’ll be asked to provide: 

• Medical Certificate or GP Report: Confirming your diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. 
• Completed Claim Form: Detailing the nature of your illness or injury, when symptoms began, and how it affects your ability to work. 
• Proof of Income: If you’re self-employed, this may include copies of your recent tax returns (Form 11), business accounts, or Revenue documents. PAYE employees will typically provide payslips or a P60. 
• Consent Form: Allowing the insurer to contact your GP or specialist for further information if required. 

Tip: Organise these documents ahead of time to avoid delays. A financial advisor can also assist in compiling accurate income evidence. 

Step 4: Engage with Your Insurer or Broker Proactively 

Once the claim is submitted, stay in regular contact with your insurer or broker. Respond promptly to any requests for further information or clarification. The smoother your communication, the faster your claim will be assessed and approved. 

Many Irish insurers have dedicated claims teams who work with you throughout the process. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you’re unsure about what’s needed at any point. 

Tip: If you used a financial advisor when setting up the policy (like DNG Financial Services), they can support you during the claim process, helping ensure everything is submitted correctly and in a timely manner. 

Step 5: Be Honest and Accurate 

Always be transparent when completing claim forms or speaking with your insurer. Providing inaccurate information or omitting important details—even unintentionally—can lead to claim delays or rejections. 

If the insurer believes your illness or injury isn’t consistent with the information provided, they may request additional assessments or independent medical evaluations. 

Tip: Be thorough and honest from the start. If you’re not sure about how to answer something, get advice before submitting your claim. 

Step 6: Know What to Expect During Assessment 

Once your documentation is received, the insurer will assess your claim. This process can take several weeks, depending on the complexity of your case and how quickly medical and income documents are verified. 

You may be asked to attend an independent medical examination (IME) or provide updates from your treating doctor. If your claim is accepted, payments will begin once the deferred period has ended. 

Example: If your deferred period is 8 weeks and your claim is approved in week 6, you’ll begin receiving payments in week 9. 

Step 7: Stay Compliant During the Claim 

Income protection benefits are ongoing, so you may be required to submit regular updates to confirm your continued inability to work. This could involve: 

• Periodic medical reviews 
• Updated income statements (especially for self-employed clients) 
• Confirmation that you’re not earning from any other source 

Some policies also support you with a return-to-work programme, helping you reintegrate part-time before transitioning back to full work, without immediately losing your benefit. 

Common Reasons Claims Are Denied 

Understanding why claims are sometimes rejected can help you avoid the pitfalls: 

• Claiming for a condition not covered by the policy 
• Incomplete or delayed documentation 
• Non-disclosure of a pre-existing condition at the time of application 
• Misrepresentation of job duties or income 

Tip: Work with a qualified advisor to help ensure your application is comprehensive and accurate. This is especially important for self-employed or high-risk professions. 

Final Thoughts 

Claiming on your income protection insurance doesn’t need to be a stressful or uncertain process. The key is preparation, prompt action, and clear communication. Understanding the claims process before you ever need to use it can save time, hassle, and financial strain when you’re already dealing with a challenging health issue.